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Bay Area Agency Recipient of U.S. EPA Clean Air Excellence Award

SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency yesterday honored the Metropolitan Transportation Commission of the San Francisco Bay Area with a 12th annual Clean Air Excellence Award for work conducted by its Climate Initiatives Program to reduce transportation emissions and vehicle miles.

Through the commission’s inaugural program, conducted in partnership with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, $33 million in grants were distributed for 17 test projects designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Bay Area. These transportation-focused projects range from creating the Bay Area’s first bicycle sharing program to facilitating an electric taxi pilot program in San Francisco and San Jose.

“For over 40 years, the Clean Air Act’s goals have been met through commitment and creativity,” said Jared Blumenfeld, EPA’s Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest. “Through their innovative solutions to improve air quality, this year’s award winners are benefiting public health, communities and our economy.”

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s award was one of 11 given to projects and companies nationwide for work on clean air initiatives. The Clean Air Excellence Award recognizes innovative programs that protect Americans’ health and the environment, educate the public, serve their communities and stimulate the economy.